When we first moved to Cincinnati a couple of years back, we immediately noticed that there weren't too many Middle Eastern/Med options around. It's too bad, because the cuisine, even when prepared properly with fresh ingredients, can be inexpensive, healthier than most, and delicious. The lighter fare and cool, bright flavors are especially welcome during warmer months. Andy's seems to get the most attention among the meager collection of Middle Eastern/Med places in the Cincinnati area. The focus of a restaurant like this is grilled meat:chicken and lamb, especially. And Andy's prepares these things competently. Although Andy's much-renowned shish tawook (chicken kabob) is really tasty. Salads at Med places can be fantastic. Andy's does have some very good hummus and felafel. Andy's 8-dollar lunch special--you get to choose three items from a short list--is a great deal. The vibe and atmosphere at Andy's feels pretty hip by Cincinnati standards. The rather odd decor in the main dining area--sort of Middle-Eastern-mural-meets-ski-lodge--is charming, and the rooms are pleasantly lit. (The restaurant is actually chopped up into two or three different areas, including a bar dining area, and up a flight of stairs, a dark rustic area.) Music volume is kept pleasantly low. Although the non-Middle Eastern waitstaff is friendly enough. But the bottom line is that Andy's is a casual restaurant.
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